How to become a TV presenter
You can get into this job through:
- a university course
- an apprenticeship
- working towards this role
- volunteering
- specialist subject knowledge
University
Many people get a degree before becoming a TV presenter. Relevant subjects include:
- media production
- drama or performing arts
- journalism or broadcast journalism
- media or communications studies
If you want to work as a presenter for a specialist programme, you may need a science, history or economics degree.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree
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Apprenticeship
You could do a higher apprenticeship as a broadcast production assistant or junior content producer in broadcasting as a first step towards working in the TV industry.
Entry requirements
Most people following this route have:
- 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths, for an advanced apprenticeship
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Work
Presenters often move into TV from other media jobs like journalism and research, or from presenting on radio or online.
Volunteering
Other Routes
If you have detailed knowledge of a subject like sport, gardening, food or science, you might find work as an expert contributor, presenting or co-presenting programmes with an experienced professional.
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Career tips
Some broadcasters hold competitions to find new presenters.
You'll usually need a showreel, with clips of yourself on camera, to give to broadcasters, producers or media recruitment agencies.
You will need to audition and/or take a screen test
Competition is strong, so you'll need determination, persistence and the ability to promote yourself.
Jobs are not always advertised, so you need to make industry contacts to find out who is hiring.
Further information
You'll find more details about working in presenting through ScreenSkills and the Broadcast Journalism Training Council.
You can find out more about creative careers from Discover Creative Careers.